Napa LTC OMBUDSMAN

OMBUDSMAN (OOMM buds man) comes from a Swedish word meaning one who investigates complaints and is a representative of the people.

Napa Long-term Care (LTC) Ombudsman is mandated by Federal and California law to investigate and resolve complaints made by and on behalf of elderly residents in LTC facilities, such as skilled nursing or convalescent hospital and Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE or Board & Care homes). Ombudsman advocate for residents' rights, improved quality of life and quality of care for these residents.

Ombudsman are primarily Volunteers. They are encouraged by the Napa LTC Ombudsman staff to spend a minimum of four hours per week in their assigned LTC facility, making regular unannounced visits. No maximum number of hours or visits are required.

Ombudsman volunteers must complete 36 hours of state-mandated training. Classes are usually offered at least two times per year.

Certified Ombudsmen have the legal right of access to all LTC facilities in Napa County at any time deemed reasonable by the California State Ombudsman (approximately 7am to 10pm)

Ombudsman also have the right to visit privately with residents and to review resident (patient) records under specified conditions.

Residents who make a complaint to an Ombudsman have the right to remain anonymous. An Ombudsman may not, by Federal law, disclose the identity of a complainant without that person's consent.

Ombudsman staff and volunteers explore problems in:
• Physical Care
• Medical Care
• Appropriate Placement
• Financial Problems
• Diet
• Meaningful Social Activities
• Legal Matters
• Medication
• Development of Residential and Family Councils

Napa LTC Ombudsman program is a direct service of the Area Agency on Aging, serving Napa-Solano counties, a private nonprofit agency which is governed by a Board of Directors. Funding sources include Federal and State Monies designated by the Older American and Older Californian Acts. Additional funds are received by private donations, grants, workshops and fundraising.

For more information on the Napa LTC Ombudsman program, please call (707) 255-4236.

OMBUDSMAN VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED!

Visits from the Ombudsman Volunteers enhance the quality of life for the Elderly and other dependent adults in long-term care (LTC) facilities for the elderly Board & Care Homes, Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing or Convalescent Hospitals.

Ombudsman Volunteers are a select group who are entrusted with legal authority and empowered with special training to help families, staff and agencies coordinate care in the best interests of the Residents.

Without Volunteers, the Napa LTC Ombudsman program cannot provide the presence needed in the many long-term care facilities throughout Napa County.

If you have the time and interest in making a positive difference in the lives of elderly residents of LTC facilities in Napa County, please call us today!!!